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Utilising the solution combustion technique, nanocrystalline photocatalysts that included both pristine TiO2 and doped TiO2 with various La (III) dopant percentages (1, 3, 5, and 7 mol%) were created. Different methods, including thermal analysis, high resolution-transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), were used to investigate the prepared nanostructures. The XRD results indicated the anatase form and the crystalline nature of the products (pristine and doped TiO2) in the size range of a crystallite (5–16.5) nm. The photocatalytic assessment of the prepared nano-photocatalysts was carried out by crystal violet (CV) decolourisation under ultraviolet (UV) light. The findings revealed that 3% La-TiO2 showed the highest degradation efficiency (95.98%) in 70 min with a pseudo-first-rate constant of k = 4.73 × 10−2 min−1, compared to pristine TiO2 and the other TiO2 nanostructures with various La (III) dopant ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study developed an energy-efficient, sustainable, and economical method for capturing carbon dioxide using landfilled coal fly ash. The innovative approach processes captured carbon dioxide with supplementary additives and alkali activators to produce a new class of hydraulic cement. A total of eight cement formulations incorporating varying proportions of landfilled coal fly ash, calcium-containing industrial byproducts, and alkali activators were produced and experimentally tested. The study achieved significant CO₂ uptakes, reaching up to 8.35% by weight of the raw materials. Up to 99.98% immobilization efficiency of heavy metal (copper) was recorded along with a significant increase in the total dissolved solids and conductivity. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed CO₂ incorporation with notable peaks at 1400 cm− 1 and 1063 cm− 1, indicating carbonate species. SEM and EDS analyses revealed varied morphologies, with dense, interconnected particle networks in some of the cement formulations. Compressive strength tests showed all formulations exceeded the EPA's minimum requirement of 0.34 MPa, with the highest strength reaching 38 MPa at 28 days. The findings of this study point to the viability of the production of mechanochemically processed hydraulic cements in CO₂ environment with effective carbon sequestration capability, marked heavy metals immobilization characteristics, and enhanced physical and mechanical attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of psychotherapy for depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been well-established in community samples but its effectiveness in carceral settings is less clear. The present systematic review thus sought to evaluate the effects of psychological therapies for PTSD and depression in incarcerated samples. We searched five databases from inception through January 2023, for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two reviewers independently reviewed the study eligibility, extracted the data, assessed the intervention reporting, and evaluated the risk of bias. Eleven RCTs met inclusion criteria, five addressing treatment of PTSD, and six addressing treatment of depression. Interventions produced mixed findings with respect to symptom reduction relative to active controls, with a significant risk of methodological bias in virtually all studies. Of the interventions studied, interpersonal psychotherapy produced the most encouraging, though clearly still tentative results for the treatment of depression. Results highlight the need for increased methodological rigor and additional research to examine the effectiveness of interventions that have yielded positive results in community samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global health concern, particularly in Egypt, due to historic schistosomiasis control efforts that inadvertently led to widespread HCV transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Egypt's national strategies in controlling and reducing the prevalence of HCV, including introducing sofosbuvir and implementing the "100 Million Healthy Lives" campaign. The approach includes a review of epidemiological data, an analysis of the national HCV control strategies implemented, and an assessment of their outcomes, focusing on the period from 2006 to 2022. Significant milestones were achieved, including a drastic reduction in new HCV infections from 300 per 100,000 in 2014 to 9 per 100,000 in 2022 and successful treatment of over 4 million people. Egypt has become the first country in the world to achieve the "gold tier" status based on World Health Organization criteria on the path to eradication of HCV. Egypt's comprehensive approach can serve as a model for similar endemic regions. Other nations with high HCV prevalence might benefit from adopting similar multidimensional strategies, emphasizing prevention and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression, the second biggest cause of disability worldwide, is widespread. Many antidepressant medications, including Desvenlafaxine Succinate (D.V.S.), function by elevating neurotransmitter levels at the synapse through the inhibition of reabsorption by neurons. However, the effectiveness of these treatments is often limited by their inability to reach the brain using conventional administration methods. Bilosome-stabilized nanovesicles containing bile salts have drawn much interest because of their adaptability and versatility in various applications. This study aimed to address this issue by formulating intranasal bilosomes incorporated into a mucoadhesive in situ gel to deliver D.V.S. directly to the brain for depression treatment. The desvenlafaxine-loaded bilosomes were developed using a thin film hydration method based on the l-optimal design. They were intended to provide a more convenient route of administration for antidepressants, enhancing bioavailability and brain targeting through intranasal delivery. The study assessed the optimized bilosomes for particle size (311.21 ± 0.42 nm), Zeta potential (–37.35 ± 0.43)and encapsulation efficiency (99.53 ± 0.41%) and further evaluated them in ex vivo and in vivo pharmacokinetics studies. Pharmacokinetic data reveal enhanced brain uptake compared to a free drug. A statistically optimized bilosome formulation was determined. The intranasal administration of mucoadhesive in situ gel containing desvenlafaxine succinate-loaded bilosomes facilitated direct nose-to-brain drug delivery, improving brain bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to develop a cutting-edge methodology to enhance compatibility between natural fiber and polymeric matrix in bio-composites. To achieve this, an innovative approach for grafting an azide functional group (Az) onto the surface of polypropylene (PP) was successfully developed and confirmed. The Az group contributed to enhancing the interfacial interaction between the polymer matrix and the bio-filler through chemical crosslinking. Crosslinking is achieved through an innovative and efficient chemical process known as click chemistry. In particular, a click reaction is established between the functionalized PP with an azide group and functionalized natural filler with an alkyne group. The effectiveness of the proposed technique is verified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The resulting bio-composite exhibits higher mechanical properties, better thermal stability, and improved biocompatibility compared to conventional materials. Specifically, the maximum tensile strength was achieved at 10% DPP loading, showing a 22% increase over the base material (DPP/PP) and a 7% increase over neat PP. A more significant enhancement was observed in Young's modulus results across all samples. Therefore, the established method is beneficial for polymer modification, promoting the production of high-performance bio-composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work described in this paper investigates the impact of cause-related marketing on brand image and loyalty from the perspective of international fast-food chains. Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with the managers to assess the current use of cause-related marketing practices (CrM) in fast-food chain restaurants. From the results of the interviews and review of literature, a model was developed including four variables, these are as follows: CrM, customer loyalty, brand image, and price increase. A self-administered structured questionnaire was designed to collect data on managers perspective of CrM, impact on brand image, customer loyalty, and price increase. Seven hundred and four questionnaires were distributed. Results from the study indicate that there is a correlation between CrM and brand and that there is a positive and significant and relationship between CrM and customer loyalty, CrM was found to have more effect on attitudinal loyalty than on behavioral loyalty. In addition, results revealed that brand image and customer loyalty are correlated. Regression analysis signified that customer loyalty is affected by brand image as the relationship between them is significant and positive. The study also found that brand image acted as a partial mediator between CrM and customer loyalty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an effort to investigate the estimations of the Weibull distribution using an improved adaptive Type-II progressive censoring scheme. This scheme effectively guarantees that the experimental time will not exceed a pre-fixed time. The point and interval estimations using two classical estimation methods, namely maximum likelihood and maximum product of spacing, are considered to estimate the unknown parameters as well as the reliability and hazard rate functions. The approximate confidence intervals of these quantities are obtained based on the asymptotic normality of the maximum likelihood and maximum product of spacing methods. The Bayesian estimations are also considered using MCMC techniques based on the two classical approaches. An extensive simulation study is implemented to compare the performance of the different methods. Further, we propose the use of various optimality criteria to find the optimal sampling scheme. Finally, one real data set is applied to show how the proposed estimators and the optimality criteria work in real-life scenarios. The numerical outcomes demonstrated that the Bayesian estimates using the likelihood and product of spacing functions performed better than the classical estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucalyptus leaves were extracted by two methods: Soxhlet extraction using different solvents and ratios, and by soaking in ethanol. The 60% ethanol extract furnished 29.9% and 44.4% inhibition of Anti-Glycation End products at 120 and 300 ppm concentrations, respectively. All extracts displayed notable antioxidant activity (FRAP). The 60% ethanol and soaked samples had the highest total phenolic content, whereas the ethyl acetate extract had the highest total flavonoids and alkaloids. Extracts displayed higher antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) than Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Detected phytochemicals included gallic acid, rutin, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, and kaempferol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy transition in hydrocarbon-rich regions like Qatar is crucial for addressing climate change. This study, acknowledging gaps in our understanding of societal perspectives on this transition, specifically investigates public views on renewable energy (RE) in Qatar. A mixed-methods questionnaire was employed to capture a broad spectrum of public knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and behaviors regarding RE. A distinctive feature of this research is its integrative approach, which encompasses environmental, economic, and policy alongside public perception and media influence. This methodology effectively bridges the research gaps in Qatar, providing a comprehensive understanding of the country’s energy transition. Multiple analyses of responses (n = 604) revealed significant trends and sociodemographic factors influencing these detailed societal opinions on RE. The findings demonstrate a cautious yet optimistic public viewpoint toward RE, with substantial support for increasing its usage over traditional oil and gas. They also highlight the importance of governmental initiatives and the global shift toward sustainable practices, along with the need for enhanced public education to bridge gaps in understanding various RE sources. The study uncovers complexities in public attitudes, shaped by sociodemographic factors, and underscores the discrepancy between initial enthusiasm for RE and its sustained daily use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article assesses the agency of UN mediators through a single case-study of the UN mediator in Syria – Staffan de Mistura. Drawing on and contributing to an emerging research agenda, we argue that UN mediators do have significant room of manoeuvre and thus the ability to conceive, negotiate, and execute key mediation policy-decisions. Our analysis bridges the literature on levels of analysis in International Relations (IR) and Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA). We developed a method that uses process-tracing to identify distinct mediation initiatives. We then pinpoint the mediator’s input on the conceptual and operational components of these main pillars of the mediation process. We question the prevailing perspective wherein the individual mediator has become conspicuous by their absence as the research gaze has been geared towards contextual constraints to mediation, the organization employing the mediator, and developing generic guides for good practice in ‘successful’ mediation. We put the study of the mediator’s agency firmly back into the comparative study of mediation, this way strengthening the validity of arguments that mediators’ personalities, skills and their individual characteristics shape their mediation initiatives just as they point up to considerable personal responsibility for which they need to be better held to account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates titanium and zinc nanoparticles as inhibitors for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2), pivotal regulators of cell processes. VEGFR-2 activation fuels tumor angiogenesis in cancer cells, sustaining malignant tissue expansion. Molecular docking analysis illustrates the nanoparticles' binding to the active sites, inhibiting the phosphorylation of key proteins in downstream signaling. This inhibition offers a promising therapeutic approach to impede cancer-related signaling, potentially slowing down aberrant protein cascades controlled by EGFR and VEGFR-2. The findings propose a novel avenue for cancer treatment, targeting abnormal growth pathways using titanium and zinc nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed at evaluating the potential contribution of Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN) and its gene polymorphism (PTEN rs701848 T/C) in relation to Wingless/integrase-1 (Wnt) signaling in childhood epilepsy and the impact of antiepileptic medications on their serum levels. This study included 100 children with epilepsy (50 pharmacoresistant and 50 pharmacoresponsive) and 50 matched controls. All subjects had their genotypes for the PTEN rs701848T/C polymorphism assessed using TaqManTM assays and real-time PCR. By using the sandwich ELISA technique, the blood concentrations of PTEN and Wnt3a were measured. Serum Wnt3a levels in epileptic patients were significantly higher than in the control group, p < 0.001. Children with epilepsy who received oxcarbazepine had considerably lower serum Wnt3a levels than those who didn't, p < 0.001.With an AUC of 0.71, the cutoff value for diagnosing epilepsy as serum Wnt3a > 6.2 ng/mL has a sensitivity of 55% and a specificity of 80%. When compared to controls, epileptic children had considerably more (TT) genotype and less (TC and CC) genotypes, p < 0.05 for all. Epileptic children had significantly higher (T) allele frequency than controls, p = 0.006 with OR (95%CI) = 1.962(1.206–3.192). Pharmacoresistant epileptic children had significantly higher (TT) genotype compared to pharmacoresponsive type (p = 0.020). We originally found a strong association between PTEN rs701848 T/C and childhood epilepsy, in particular pharmacoresistant type. Serum Wnt3a levels increased in epilepsy, but were not significantly different between different alleles of PTEN. In pharmaco-responsive children Wnt3a levels differed significantly between the different PTEN genotypes. Antiepileptics may affect Wnt3a levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accelerated Life Test has been introduced as a tool to aid in obtaining sufficient failure time data of test units quickly and extrapolating lifetime information under use conditions. When the lifetime of units is distributed by the Lindley model, the estimations for the unknown parameters and the reliability function are established based on two frequentist methods and Bayesian method of estimation using Type-II censored data under constant-stress accelerated life test. In the frequentist methods, besides, the conventional likelihood-based estimation, another competitive method, known as the maximum product of spacing method is proposed for estimating the parameters and the reliability function under normal conditions as an alternative approach to the common likelihood method. In Bayesian estimation, both maximum likelihood and maximum product of spacing-based Bayesian estimates are discussed for unknown parameters as well as the reliability function. Moreover, the approximate confidence intervals and highest posterior density credible intervals of the parameters and reliability function are also obtained. Extensive Monte-Carlo simulation studies are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed estimates. Finally, to demonstrate the proposed methodology, two real-life accelerated life test data are considered to show the applicabilities of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicultural and social justice competence is an expectation for school counselors. School counselors need to be proficient in providing multiculturally competent practices and social justice advocacy action. The same can be said for their school stakeholder counterparts, yet no empirical investigations explore how the Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies (MSJCC), specifically its institutional interventions, can serve as a framework for all school stakeholders to provide multiculturally competent practices and social justice advocacy action in schools. We conducted a Delphi study with expert school stakeholders as participants, including school counselors, that resulted in a consensus list of opinions regarding initial perceptions, usefulness, willingness, supports, barriers and reflections of the MSJCC, specifically the institutional interventions. We provide emergent implications for school counselors and other educational stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the effects of powder waste glass (PWG) at 10%, 15%, and 20 wt.% replacement of cement on the flow characteristic, setting time, compressive strength, water sorption, rate of the heat of hydration, cumulative heat of hydration; alkali-silica reaction (ASR), and microstructure characteristics of the resulting paste and mortar mixtures. A total of eight cementitious mixtures including two control mixtures have been investigated in this experimental program to evaluate the effect of PWG on the fresh and hardened state characteristics of paste and mortar mixtures. Test results show that the incorporation of PWG in the cementitious mixtures results in significant enhancement of their microstructure, increase in compressive strength, improvement in moisture barrier characteristics, and considerable reduction in the rate of the heat of hydration and cumulative heat of hydration. Up to 20 wt.% replacement of cement with fine PWG is seen to be innocuous from the standpoint of ASR. Furthermore, the use of PWG in paste results in delaying the initial and final setting times and increases the flow characteristic of the mortar mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyroid cancer is one of the deadliest endocrine cancers, and its incidence has been increasing. While mutations in BRAF are common in thyroid cancer, advanced PTC patients currently lack therapeutic options targeting the MAPK pathway, and despite the approved combination of BRAF and MEK1/2 inhibition for BRAF-mutant ATC, resistance often occurs. Here, we assess growth and signaling responses to combined BRAF and MEK1/2 inhibition in a panel of BRAF-mutant thyroid cancer cell lines. We first showed that combined BRAF and MEK1/2 inhibition synergistically inhibits cell growth in four out of six of the -BRAF-mutant thyroid cancer cell lines tested. Western blotting showed that the MAPK pathway was robustly inhibited in all cell lines. Therefore, to identify potential mechanisms of resistance, we performed RNA-sequencing in cells sensitive or resistant to MEK1/2 inhibition. In response to MEK1/2 inhibition, we identified a downregulation of Aurora Kinase B (AURKB) in sensitive but not resistant cells. We further demonstrated that combined MEK1/2 and AURKB inhibition slowed cell growth, which was phenocopied by inhibiting AURKB and ERK1/2. Finally, we show that combined AURKB and ERK1/2 inhibition induces apoptosis in BRAF-mutant thyroid cancer cell lines, together suggesting a potential combination therapy for BRAF-mutant thyroid cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research highlights the distribution of heavy metals (Ni, Cu, Zn, Cr, Co and Mn) in Ravi and Chenab and assesses their effect on ecosystem health. Samples of plant species and sediments at eight sampling sites were collected and analysed by the PIXE technique. Heavy metal concentrations (µg/g) of Zn (7.98–411.23), Ni (12.59–209), Cu (3.74–38.77) and Mn (0–730.21) in river Ravi and concentrations of Zn (49.32–274.30), Ni (1.05–141.21) and Mn (41.66–519.47) in river Chenab were found to be high but Heavy metal concentration in the two compartments were in the following order plants > sediments. Heavy metals of sediments and plants depict that there are significant correlations between Cu (0.994), Zn (0.986) and Cr (0.978) in river Ravi and Ni (1.000), Zn (.990) and Cr (.978) in river Chenab. The results show the potential of heavy metals from plants in two rivers of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal complexes of Co(II), Cu(II) and Ni(II) with the Schiff base ligand, 6,6ʹ-(([1,1ʹ-biphenyl]-4,4ʹ diylbis(azaneylylidene))bis(methaneylylidene))bis(2,4-dichlorophenol) (H2L) were synthesised. All synthesised compounds were identified and characterised. The conductivity measurements showed the non-electrolytic nature of all the complexes. The decomposition of all complexes ended with metal oxide. Octahedral geometries were proposed for all complexes. Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye (MB) in the presence and absence of hydrogen peroxide was studied by using Co(II), Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes as catalysts. Fluorescence studies have shown that the reported compounds can act as photoactive materials. Density functional theory was used to investigate the geometries of the ligand and its complexes. The adsorption of Co2+, Ni2+ and Cu2+ in an aqueous solution on H2L ligand under various conditions was studied. The optical properties of all complexes were studied. Antimicrobial activities of the ligand and its transition metal complexes were studied. The in-vitro cytotoxicity of ligand and its cobalt(II), nickel(II) and copper(II) complexes were evaluated towards the human Liver Carcinoma (HepG2) cell line and compared with standard cisplatin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt aluminate/carbon composite nanoparticles have been synthesised by utilising an auto-combustion method using glycine as an inexpensive fuel. The products were analysed by various techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), thermal analysis (TG), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results exhibited that the average crystallite size of the as-prepared CoAl2O4/C nanocomposite was ca. 26 nm. The photocatalytic activity of the as-prepared catalyst was evaluated through the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under different conditions, and the photocatalytic degradation mechanism was proposed. The results indicated that CoAl2O4/C nanocomposite has a high catalytic performance for the photocatalytic degradation of MB dye under UV illumination in the presence of H2O2. The degradation efficiency reached 98.5% in 90 min with a degradation rate constant of 0.046 min−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The failure of mineral oils to work in machinery and engines under intense pressure, heat, and corrosion has prompted researchers to consider the development of synthetic lubricating oils that are appropriate for these demanding conditions. This research was conducted to synthesize new esters by reaction of citric acids (CA) with mono-alcohols (hexanol, octanol, decanol and 2-ethylhexanol), then the products were reacted with propanoic acid, valeric acid, and octanoic acid separately using 1:1 molar ratio. The resulting esters were characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The rheological properties were studied, and it was found that the prepared esters have high thermal stabilities as the degradation takes place in the range of 175 °C - 425 °C. The prepared esters show Newtonian behaviors as their viscosities do not change by changing shear rate. The physicochemical characteristic of prepared esters were also determined which showed improved low temperature properties (PP) -36 °C for ester (2R)-1,2-bis(2-ethylhexyl) 3-nonyl 2-(pentanoyloxy)propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate (COEV) and viscosity index (VI) at 195 for ester (2R)-1-decyl 3-(2-ethylhexyl) 2-heptan-3-yl 2-(propionyloxy)propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate (CDEP). The stabilities of the prepared esters were confirmed via the computational analysis and their stabilities were ranked as CDEP>COEP>COEO>COEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How do objects narrate the past, the everyday, and interrogate im/possible futures? How do they undo our 'ideas of home'? What affects do they gather and what subjectivities and different forms of intimacy do they call into conversation? This compendium article brings a visual artist together with nine early career academics researching and archiving fragments from homes in Egypt, Sudan, and Palestine (and their global connections). In doing so the piece offers different practices of narrating and visualising stories of and from home. The article moves from bridges and infrastructure to food and clothes and walls. Through attending to these fragments, the authors invoke questions about the ways in which objects archive colonialism, resistance, revolts, neoliberalism, consumerism, dispersion, migration, and exile. At the core of the article is the visual artist Azza Ezzat's creative interpretation of these nine stories, with a visual rendition that asks how fragments of home become interwoven aesthetically. Ezzat is an Egyptian visual artist whose practice relies on unpacking urban elements and recreating an alternative geography of urban space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The current study aimed to qualitatively explore the side effects reported by participants who received the COVID-19 vaccine among the Jordanian population. Methods: Between April 18th and May 12th, 2022, an in-depth interview was conducted with a purposive sample of vaccinated individuals to assess the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine in this study. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes and sub-themes within the current qualitative data. Results: A total of 20 participants were interviewed. They had a mean age of 41.3 (SD = 14.3) years. Half of the participants were females (n = 10, 50.0%). The study revealed six main themes: first, most of the respondents believed that COVID-19 vaccines were safe. Second, the vaccines are not equivalent in their safety. The third there showed that participants follow preventive measures to decrease the possibility of experiencing side effects. The fourth theme showed that reporting of side effects by the participants is dependent on the experienced side effects. Moreover, the next theme revealed that participants showed hesitancy to take more than one type of vaccine. Finally, participants were willing to take the vaccine annually, because they believed that the vaccine is better than the disease itself and decreases the aggressive effects of the disease. Conclusions: This study found that the majority of participants believed in the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines and emphasized the responsibility of the healthcare providers in increasing awareness among the population about the importance of the vaccines. Enhancing such awareness is essential to improve the acceptance of receiving different types of vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We herein report the synthesis of monoclinic calcium aluminate (CaAl2O4) nanoparticles via a facile auto-combustion method followed by calcination. We performed the auto-combustion method using aluminium nitrate and calcium nitrate as oxidants and different fuels as reductants such as urea, glycine, and a mixture of urea and glycine, with various fuel-to-oxidant equivalence ratios (Φ c). Then, the combusted samples were calcined at different temperatures; 600 and 800 °C. The products were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermo-gravimetric analysis, field-emission scanning electron microscope, and high-resolution transmission electron microscope. CaAl2O4 nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of 40.4, 38.8, and 33.7 nm were obtained after calcination at 800 °C using the aforementioned fuels, respectively. TEM images revealed that CaAl2O4 nanoparticles tend to form partially sintered aggregates owing to the high thermal treatment temperature, so they have non-uniform shapes. The produced CaAl2O4 nanoparticles exhibited good absorptivity toward Ni(II) and As(III) ions form aqueous media. The maximum sorption capacities (qm) of CaAl2O4 for the removal of Ni(II) and As(III) were found to be 58.73 and 43.9 mg.g−1, at pH 7 and 5, respectively. The equilibrium isotherms and adsorption kinetics studies revealed that the adsorption data fitted well Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second-order models, respectively. Besides, the adsorption of Ni(II) and As(III) ions on CaAl2O4 nanoparticles is physisorption. Overall, the obtained results indicated that calcium aluminate nano-adsorbent is a good candidate for the removal of Ni(II) and As(III) ions from wastewater, due to its high efficiency, stability, and re-usability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly sensitive, selective and accurate method has been developed to determine ultra trace amounts of copper(II) by solid-phase extraction (SPE). The following parameters such as pH, concentration of the reagent, Triton X-100, reversed-phase Amberlite IR-120, equilibrating temperature and centrifuging time were evaluated to enhance the sensitivity and extraction efficiency of the proposed method. The method has been based on copper(II) and 4-((furan-2-ylmethylene) amino)-5-methyl-4 H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol (FAMT) reaction, followed by solid-phase extraction (SPE) of Cu(II)-FAMT with a reversed-phase Amberlite IR-120. This was performed by using borate buffer solution of pH 7.6 in the presence of Triton X-100 medium. FAMT reacts with copper(II) to form a deep green complex with molar ratio of (2: 1) (FAMT: copper). An enrichment and improvement factor of 200 and 540, respectively, were obtained by elution of the complex from the resin with a minimal amount of dimethylsulfoxide (0.5 mL). The molar absorptivity of the complex was 6.49 × 106 L mol−1 cm−1 at 499 nm. Beer's law was obeyed in the range 5.0–190 ng mL−1 of the measured solution. After optimising the instrumental and experimental parameters, the maximum values for quantification and detections limits of 100 mL sample system were 5.40 and 1.64 ng mL−1. The suggested method has been successfully applied for determination of copper ions in various environmental (water, vegetables, food, and biological) samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive Type-II progressive hybrid censoring scheme has quite popular in a life-testing problem and reliability analysis due to it ensures more efficiency of inference procedures and saves total testing time. In this paper, an adaptive Type-II progressive hybrid censored sampling with random removals is considered, where the removals of the survival units at each stage from a life-test follows a binomial distribution during the execution of the experiment. The classical and Bayesian approaches are used to obtain the point and interval estimates of the unknown parameters of Weibull distribution, when the lifetimes are collected under the proposed censoring scheme. Different Bayesian estimates relative to various balanced type loss functions are obtained. Due to the complexity of the proposed estimators, some numerical techniques are implemented to obtain them. Using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods, the different Bayes estimates and associate credible intervals are developed. Extensive simulation study is performed to examine the efficiency of the proposed estimators. To show the applicability of the proposed methods in a real-life scenario, two real data sets coming from clinical and engineering areas are analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Engineering Education Research Network in Africa (EERN-Africa) was created to enable connections between practitioners and researchers with a shared interest in African engineering education contexts. Recognising the importance of developing an African voice in the engineering education research space, the EERN-Africa community has interacted in a dynamic and dialogic way with our own teaching and research practices across diverse African contexts, with an ethical commitment to democratic and inclusive community-building. The objective of this paper is to reflect on the current status of the Community of Practice (CoP), and the challenges and opportunities in sustaining and growing the CoP. A collaborative analysis of perspectives on this emerging identity is presented, using an Appreciative Inquiry (AI) methodology and drawing on collective written reflections and discussions. Six broad themes on the value that the CoP has for both individuals and the group were identified: networking, capacity development, emotional support, impact on professional identity, social and environmental impact, and breaking borders. This paper contributes an approach for collaborative capacity-building in EER through a virtual CoP, underpinned by the spirit of ubuntu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceived discrimination has a significant negative impact on indices of mental health. One potential buffering factor in this is psychological resilience, which encompasses the ability to recover from or adapt successfully to adversity and use coping strategies, such as positive reappraisal of adverse events. This study examines the role of resilience as well as social support in buffering these effects in groups of migrants both with and without local residence permits. We conducted a non-experimental observational study with a cross-sectional design, collecting a variety of health variables in migrant groups in a naturalistic setting, during the COVID-19 period. The total sample consisted of 201 subjects, 88 of whom had a German residence title and 113 did not. These two groups were compared on the following variables of interest: social support, resilience, discrimination, and general mental health. There was no evidence for a difference in mental health between migrants with and without citizenship. However, our results suggested that migrants without citizenship reported less social support, less resilience, and more discrimination, which continued to have a distinct effect on mental health beyond resilience and social support. Psychological resilience mediated the link between social support and mental health, as well as being related to the perception of discrimination in the migrant group without citizenship. In conclusion, our models of migrants with and without citizenship showed that resilience specifically directly affected perceived discrimination in those without citizenship. The high levels of discrimination and lack of social support, particularly in the migrant group without citizenship, are concerning and suggest a focus for future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 booster dose vaccination acceptance and actual vaccination behavior is not known among Egyptian individuals with autoimmune and rheumatic diseases (ARDs). The aim of this study was to investigate the acceptability of booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the factors that drive and inhibit that acceptance among Egyptian patients diagnosed with ARDs. Methods: This interview-based, cross-sectional analytical study was carried out on ARD patients from 20 July to 20 November 2022. A questionnaire was created to assess sociodemographic and clinical data, as well as COVID-19 vaccination status and the intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose, perception of health benefits of it in addition to the perceived barriers and/or concerns. Results: A total of 248 ARD patients were included, with a mean age of 39.8 years (SD = 13.2), and 92.3% were females. Among them, 53.6% were resistant to the COVID-19 booster dose, whereas 31.9% were acceptant and 14.5% were hesitant. Those who were administering corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine shown significantly greater booster hesitancy and resistance (p = 0.010 and 0.004, respectively). The primary motivation for taking a booster dose among the acceptant group was own volition (92%). Most acceptants believed that booster dose can prevent serious infection (98.7%) and community spread (96.2%). Among the hesitant and resistant groups, the main concerns for booster dose were fear about its major adverse effects (57.4%) and long-term impact (45.6%). Conclusions: There is a low acceptability rate of booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine among Egyptian patients with ARD diseases. Public health workers and policymakers need to make sure that all ARD patients get clear messages about accepting the COVID-19 booster dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low cost and safety qualify magnesium (Mg) metal batteries as one of the utmost post-lithium batteries. Nonetheless, most Mg electrolytes suffer from conditionality and incompatibility with most useable cathodes, hindering realising applicable Mg batteries. Herein, we study the effect of the stoichiometric ratio of Mg(CF3SO3)2/AlCl3 on the physical, electrical and electrochemical performance of an electrolyte system based on Mg(CF3SO3)2 in acetonitrile (ACN) and tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (G4). The physicochemical analyses include Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis irradiation, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Mg plating/stripping of electrolytes exhibit the optimum stoichiometric ratio is 0.28MAlCl3/0.17MMg(CF3SO3)2. The present study offers new approaches for designing promising efficient electrolytes for Mg batteries. The work extends to using an unconventional electrode based on sulphur, silicon carbide, and barium titanate to demonstrate the performance of the full cell. This optimised electrolyte coupled with the unconventional cathode allows a high initial specific discharge capacity, ~ 241 mAhg−1. However, the dissolution of polysulphides issue still exists and leads to irreversible cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malnutrition threatens children worldwide. The objective of the current study was to highlight the role of nutritional screening, evaluate the effectiveness of nutritional intervention program, and whether nutritional supplements have surplus benefit. Screening Tool for the Assessment of Malnutrition in Pediatrics (STAMP) was used to screen 3640 clinically stable 2–5 years old children recruited from the outpatient clinics, Children's Hospital, Ain Shams University. A total of 100 patients at high risk of malnutrition were enrolled. Full nutritional assessment was done and according to the distribution of the calories in the daily meal plan, the patients were randomly divided into two groups each comprised 50 patients. Group A received tailored nutritional dietary rehabilitation plan including dietary supplements, while Group B received only dietary advice. Anthropometric measurements, laboratory tests, as well as STAMP scoring were reassessed after the nutritional rehabilitation programs. Nutritional screening revealed that 5.14% were at high risk of malnutrition. Both studied groups showed significant improvement in caloric intake and all anthropometric measurements upon nutritional rehabilitation, except for the height z scores. Patients who received nutritional supplements showed significantly better changes regarding weight, BMI, caloric intake, and hemoglobin. Regarding STAMP categories during follow up, Group A had only 6% of the patients still in the high-risk category and 76% were at low risk compared to 14% high risk and only 54% were at low risk in Group B. Nutritional screening in pediatric outpatient facilities can lead to implementing prompt nutritional rehabilitation, which can reflect on the patients' overall health. Tailored nutritional plan can accomplish good response in terms of improvement of caloric intake, anthropometric measurements and laboratory parameters. Adding a nutritional supplement to the dietary plan during nutritional rehabilitation isn't a must but it ensures superior goal achievement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new chemical treatment method to extract rich cellulosic fibers from date palm agro-residues is developed. The method yielded high-performance natural date palm fibers based on multistep process, which is efficient, sustainable, and unique. The proposed method consists of three steps: dewaxing, acetylation, and mercerization, which are unique in terms of time control and their sequence resulting in optimal properties of extracted fiber. Each step is strictly time-controlled and designed to achieve specific objectives in preparation for the next step. Optimization techniques including design of experiment are used to adjust input parameters so as to obtain optimized output from the treatment method. Two approaches are used for supplying heat during the fiber extraction procedure i.e. conventional heat source and microwave heat source. Experimental characterization of extracted fibers is carried out to determine its mechanical and physical properties. Results showed 32% increase in crystallinity degree of the treated fiber over the untreated one. The new method achieved around five-fold increase in ultimate tensile strength and three-fold increase in elastic modulus. The significant enhancement in properties of treated fibers over untreated counterparts confirms the effectiveness of the new process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates a developed porous piezoelectric composite with metal layers introduced at the interfaces between the piezoelectric and vacuum phases. These metal layers can be added to improve the mechanical and electromechanical properties of the composite. The ordinary porous piezocomposite, which contains only vacuum pores, and the piezocomposite with metal inclusions, whose pores are filled with metal, were explored as specific cases. We constructed the finite element model for all composites understudy and determined their macro properties using the effective moduli theory, which depends on the well-known Hill-Mandel principle. We considered a simple representative unit cell cubic volume, which consists of a piezoelectric matrix with a spherical pore at its center. We compared the properties of all systems and explored the effects of the metal fraction increase on the effective moduli. There are drastic effects on the dielectric permittivity and piezoelectric properties of the considered composite due to the presence of metal inclusion. With an appropriate design of the porous piezocomposite with a metalized pore surface, better effective piezoelectric strain coefficients d i j eff and transverse transduction coefficient ( d 31 eff ) 2 / ε 33 T eff can be achieved. As a result, it is expected that piezoelectric transducers made from this piezocomposite would perform well in piezoelectric motors, transverse piezoelectric sensors, and transverse piezoelectric energy harvesters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on the marketing aspects of customer satisfaction, this paper provides insights into the relationship between students’ and lecturers’ satisfaction in a higher education institution. The study critically adopts the logic of relationship marketing, arguing that students’ satisfaction affects lecturers’ job satisfaction. The relationship between students’ and lecturers’ satisfaction is explored using Balance Theory and Herzberg’s Motivation Theory. The Critical Incident Technique is used for data collection through interviews with student-lecturer dyads. The findings indicate that lecturers’ job satisfaction increases when students’ holistic feedback is explicitly shared with lecturers. Hence, investing in the communication of students’ satisfaction enhances lecturers’ job satisfaction. The current work adds a critical perspective to the relationship between lecturers’ and students’ satisfaction. It highlights a reversal of the accepted logic of relationship marketing, arguing that students’ satisfaction affects lecturers’ satisfaction. The methodological contribution of this work offers a new approach to using critical incident analysis techniques in dyads of students and lecturers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibition is considered a promising target for cancer treatment for its crucial role in cell cycle regulation. Pyrazolo pyrimidine derivatives were well established for their antitumor activity via CDK2 inhibition. In this research, new series of pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives (4-15) was designed and synthesised as novel CDK2 inhibitors. The anti-proliferative activities against MCF-7, HCT-116, and HepG-2 were used to evaluate their anticancer activity as novel CDK2 inhibitors. Most of the compounds showed superior cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 and HCT-116 compared to Sorafenib. Only compounds 8, 14, and 15 showed potent activity against HepG-2. The CDK2/cyclin A2 enzyme inhibitory activity was tested for all synthesised compounds. Compound 15 showed the most significant inhibitory activity with IC50 0.061 ±0.003 µM. It exerted remarkable alteration in Pre G1 and S phase cell cycle progression and caused apoptosis in HCT cells. In addition, the normal cell line cytotoxicity for compound 15 was assigned revealing low cytotoxic results in normal cells rather than cancer cells. Molecular docking was achieved on the designed compounds and confirmed the two essential hydrogen binding with Leu83 in CDK2 active site. In silico ADMET studies and drug-likeness showed proper pharmacokinetic properties which helped in structure requirements prediction for the observed antitumor activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lebanon has been recognized as a center for high-quality healthcare services in the Middle East because of its prestigious facilities certified by international bodies, competent health workers, and credible pharmaceutical sector. This study assessed the professional situation of the Lebanese pharmaceutical workforce upon graduation and entry to the job market. It also evaluated the satisfaction of pharmacists with the financial, physical, and psychological aspects of their job and the effect of the current socioeconomic crisis on their profession. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed between January and May 2021 among 114 Lebanese pharmacists from all pharmaceutical sectors across Lebanon. A self-administered questionnaire was elaborated to assess the pharmaceutical workforce in Lebanon. The online questionnaire was built using Google Forms and disseminated via emails and social platforms. Results: Fresh graduates seemed more oriented toward community pharmacies, and 78.1% of the participants worked at least once in their lifetime in a community pharmacy. Pharmacists from the public university worked predominantly in the community pharmacy sector, while those who graduated from private universities worked mainly as medical representatives. Hospital pharmacy comprised significantly more PharmD graduates than other sectors; medical representatives had mainly a BS pharmacy, while those working as industrial pharmacists had a Master's degree. A low percentage (31.6%) of participants found it easy to get hold of a job across different pharmaceutical sectors while 64.0% considered the internships experience insufficient to get employed. Nearly half (48.2%) of the respondents were poorly satisfied with their job, and 54.0% of community pharmacists reported not working in their preferred field compared to 39.1% of pharmacists from other sectors. Also, 65.79% felt that the economic crisis and the consequent medication shortages affected their credibility and how society perceived them. About half (45.61%) of the participants reported that their employment status was not affected by the crisis; the rest got a second job to cover their expenses (15.79%) or changed jobs (14.91%). Conclusion: Our study findings revealed that most Lebanese fresh graduates worked as community pharmacists, which does not correspond to their preference, the available job market, and the modern pharmacy wingspan. Most pharmacists were also financially, physically, and emotionally dissatisfied due to the Lebanese economic crisis that added heavy workloads and responsibilities without any financial raise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Where are you from?" For Palestinian citizens of Israel travelling abroad, this simple question is anything but trivial. It raises dilemmas of identity and stigma and evokes emotions of embarrassment, guilt and pride. Drawing on in-depth interviews, the paper examines the repertoires of self-presentation of Palestinian Israelis during travel abroad. Their answer to the question changed depending on the country they were visiting. In Turkey, respondents presented themselves as Palestinian; in Arab countries, they were "Arabs of '48." In those Middle Eastern destinations, Palestinian Israelis concealed their Israeli citizenship to avoid stigma and risk. In Europe, by contrast, respondents typically presented themselves as Israeli citizens – a self-presentation also shielded them from stigmas against Arabs. The paper examines the splintered and strategic self-presentation of Palestinian Israelis in the previously-unexplored domain of international travel. Our findings show that during international travel, a minority ethnic background may actually be advantageous at times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes following expectant management of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) between 18 and 26 weeks and to identify maternal morbidity and prognostic factors for neonatal outcomes. Data were collected from all pregnant women who presented PPROM between 18+0 and 26+0 weeks admitted into two tertiary centers in Brazil from 2005 to 2016. The neonatal adverse outcomes (mortality or the development of a severe morbidity) and maternal adverse outcomes were analyzed and compared among four groups (180/7 to 200/7 weeks, 20+1 to 220/7 weeks, 22+1 to 240/7 weeks and 24+1 to 260/7 weeks). A multiple logistic regression was performed for each predictor of neonatal adverse outcomes, and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curves for birth weight and gestational age at birth were calculated. Of the 101 women with PPROM during the study period, 97 fulfilled the eligible criteria. Among these patients, 30 (30.9%) had a miscarriage or stillbirth. Overall there were 67/97 (69.1%) livebirths, 45/97 newborns survived to discharge (46.3%), and 53/97 (54.6%) experienced severe neonatal adverse outcome. The median latency period was seven days, with 36 (37.1%) patients ending the pregnancy in 2–14 days. Among 29 patients with PPROM at 24+1 to 260/7 weeks, only 13 (44.8%) delivered between 2 and 14 days. Multivariate analysis has demonstrated that the independent predictor for adverse neonatal outcome was birthweight. The maternal morbidity was high; however, the expectant management did not increase the rate of severe maternal morbidity. PPROM between 18+0 and 26+0 weeks has high morbidity and mortality, and the only significant independent predictor of severe adverse neonatal outcomes is birthweight. Maternal morbidity is high, however, the expectant management is not increased by expectant management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the practice patterns among Lebanese obstetricians regarding obstetric care of twins and to compare selected practice patterns between general obstetricians and maternal fetal medicine physicians. Questionnaires distributed during the annual meeting of the Lebanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Questionnaires were returned by 69.2% of the 296 physicians approached. Ten percent had fellowship training in Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM). Thirty-nine percent perform cervical length measurement at 20–24 weeks of gestation and 34% recommend vaginal progesterone in case of a short cervix. When comparing selected practice patterns between MFM & general obstetricians, MFM specialists were less likely to perform cervical cerclage in the first trimester (5.9% versus 49%, p =.001), more likely to offer prenatal screening for aneuploidy (66.6% vs 46.4%, p =.03), less likely to use vaginal progesterone in the second trimester in the case of a short cervix (42.1% vs 61.8%, p =.04), less likely to perform serial ultrasound exam in the third trimester to assess fetal growth (50% vs 78%, p =.005) and more likely to deliver monoamniotic twins at 32–34 weeks of gestation (55% vs 37%, p =.05). Because of the different background of the Lebanese physicians, MFM specialists are more likely to follow obstetric care guidelines in twin gestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wolrdwide, late blight disease initiated by Phytophthora infestans cause major yield loss in potatoes. Management depends mainly on the application of chemical fungicides that might cause environmental pollution. Therefore, current study aimed to investigate the fungicidal activity of biotic (BioArc) and abiotic (Fluazinam and Potasin F) compounds individually or sequentially against P. infestans in two field seasons. The results showed that disease severity was significantly decreased in all treated plants compared to control potatoes. In addition, all treatments caused increment of vegetative growth, tuber yield, and tuber contents of N, P, K, reducing, non-reducing, total sugar, protein, starch, total carbohydrate, TSS, and Vit C. In conclusion, combination of Fluazinam, BioArc, and Potasin F as tri-sequential treatment would be an appropriate alternative to chemical fungicides in the management of P. infestans on potato vegetative growth and improve yield production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autoimmune diseases disproportionately affect women and have been linked to increased risk of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of autoimmune disease among pregnant women and women of reproductive age (WRA), which is not well described. A population-based study was conducted using data from a survey of general practitioner (GP) encounters and state-wide hospital admissions in New South Wales (NSW). A list of 29 conditions and relevant diagnosis codes was used to identify autoimmune disease. Prevalence estimates and trends were calculated using population denominators for GP encounters for WRA in 2011–2015 and hospital admissions for WRA and pregnant women in 2013–2017. A total 31,065 GP encounters for WRA were identified and 607 (2.0%) reported an autoimmune disease, equivalent to 1.1 GP encounters per 10 WRA each year when extrapolating to NSW population figures. For WRA admitted to hospital, 2.6% had an autoimmune diagnosis recorded each year equivalent to a population prevalence of 0.5%. A total 477,243 births were identified, of which 4230 mothers (0.9%) had at least one autoimmune disease recorded during a 1-year pregnancy lookback period. Autoimmune disease prevalence among both pregnant women and WRA either attending GP or hospital increased, on average, 2–4% per year over the study period. A small, but potentially growing proportion of reproductive age and pregnant women have a diagnosed autoimmune disease, and this may impact their health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents methods of estimation of the parameters and acceleration factor for Nadarajah–Haghighi distribution based on constant-stress partially accelerated life tests. Based on progressive Type-II censoring, Maximum likelihood and Bayes estimates of the model parameters and acceleration factor are established, respectively. In addition, approximate confidence interval are constructed via asymptotic variance and covariance matrix, and Bayesian credible intervals are obtained based on importance sampling procedure. For comparison purpose, alternative bootstrap confidence intervals for unknown parameters and acceleration factor are also presented. Finally, extensive simulation studies are conducted for investigating the performance of the our results, and two data sets are analyzed to show the applicabilities of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel design to use polymer grains of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) as a filament for a 3D printer. In the suggested design special extruder for ABS polymer grains were designed. This novel design may comprise an important step towards the improvement of using 3d printers in large scale manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The past few decades have witnessed increasing levels of hostility among partisans, a phenomenon labelled affective polarisation. This study examines how partisan affective polarisation compares to the racial divide. We examine these differences by looking at ratings of partisan, ideological and racial outgroups on intelligence, morality, trustworthiness, hard work and patriotism. We find that individuals tend to rate their partisan and ideological ingroups more positively. More importantly, we find that the difference in ratings of ingroups and outgroups is larger for partisanship and ideology compared to racial groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac surgeries induce many inflammatory responses with remarkable clinical implications. Tryptophan (Trp) is a precursor for serotonin, melatonin and kynurenine (Kyn). Plasma kynurenic acid (Kyna) and Kyn concentrations are thought to be related to the severity of inflammation. Plasma Trp/Kyn ratio is used to measure inflammatory cytokine activity. Methods: We performed the current longitudinal study in a tertiary care center and included 62 patients divided into two groups; group A (on-pump CABG patients) and group B (off-pump CABG patients). Plasma Trp and Kyn were measured using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. Serum interlukin-6 (IL-6) and white blood cells (WBCs) were measured using ELISA and routine blood count, respectively. Results: The present study revealed that the intraoperative levels of plasma Kyn, IL-6 and WBCs were significantly increased while the plasma Trp/Kyn ratio was significantly decreased in both the groups; however, the changes were more significant in the on-pump CABG group. Moreover, the levels in both the groups returned to preoperative levels 72 h postoperative. Our study has shown that WBCs is positively correlated with IL-6, but has negative correlation with Trp/Kyn ratio. Conclusions: Kyn and Trp/Kyn ratio might be utilized as markers of the severity of inflammation in major surgery. In addition, off-pump CABG might be more preferable than on-pump CABG regarding stress and release of inflammatory markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the ideal of Bildung within the philosophy of nature and the natural sciences by investigating the methodological and scientific writings of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. It argues that although we have largely overlooked the role of Bildung in scientific education, Goethe's understanding of scientific knowledge offers a new, and substantial, account of Bildung, sheds important light on the relation between science, knowledge, and ethics, and has the potential to reorient environmental ethics. The article begins by considering why Goethe regarded education as necessary for knowing well, and moves to examine the character of this education, and how Goethe sought to educate himself and his readers. It proceeds to reconstruct Goethe's account of the knowledge relation, and shows how it is founded on the idea that knowledge is collaboration between knower and known, where the known is as actively involved in the collaboration as the knower. This opens up the conceptual possibility of understanding the knowledge relation as an ethical relation: the knower is responsible toward her collaborator—the known. The article concludes by investigating the ways in which Goethe's account of knowledge offers a different conception of Bildung and shifts the direction of environmental ethics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N'-(2-((4-(Benzo[d][1, 3]dioxol-5-yl)-3-cyano-6-(naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl)oxy)- acetyl)benzohydrazide (6) and hydrazide derivatives (7–10) were synthesized via reaction of 3-cyano-pyridinacetohydrazide (5) with benzoylchloride and the appropriate aldehyde, respectively. Also, 4-(Benzo[d][1, 3]dioxol-5-yl)-2-(2-(3-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-2-oxoethoxy)-6-(naphthalen-2-yl) nicotinonitrile (11) was prepared through reaction of (5) with ethylacetoacetate. In addition, the hydrazide 5 was used as a starting material for synthesizing other nicotinonitrile derivatives (12, 13) and acetohydrazides (14, 15). Moreover, new 2, 5-disubsitituted-1,3,4-oxadiazoles (16, 17) were furnished by the reaction of (5) with benzoic acid derivatives. The cytotoxicity for some new compounds was investigated against human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines at concentrations (0, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 μg/ml) using MTT assay. Compounds (4, 9, 14 and 17) were recorded the lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines via cytotoxicity assays. These results were confirmed using molecular docking experiments. From the previous observations, we suggested that our synthesized compounds could be of great potential against breast cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]